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MEGA Tracker 2A - Dual Axis Solar Tracking Controller

An out-of-the-box single/dual axis controller solution with infinite possibilities, the MEGA Tracker represents a new level of home friendly solar technology. Using any reed-sensor actuator, just configure it for your geometry and get going. The waterproof enclosure with 16x2 LCD displays status information and a sealed membrane keypad makes configuration and stand-alone operation a breeze.

Use for PV panels, parabolic trough, dish, or just about any other actuator based solar tracking application!

﻿Hook this controller up to any DC motor driver (comes with 1 HB2 motor driver) for linear actuators (or other motors) with reed/pulse position sensors, configure it for your geometry and start tracking. The MegaTracker supports single or dual-axis operation, with a variety of mount types, and each axis can operate in either analog or digital mode. Analog mode uses external LED or similar sensors to provide aiming information, while digital mode uses astronomical calculation and trigonometry to determine panel angle.Full parameter configuration puts you in control of system behavior. ﻿The waterproof membrane keypad provides a full interface for stand-alone operation with easy access to all features via the simple menu system.

Things the SolarMega controller does that most other solar tracking controllers don't:

Real-time-clock and astronomical algorithms calculate the position of the sun

Analog or digital tracking modes

calculate angle based on actuator position (most analog systems don't sense position directly)

a programmable event queue for scheduled events

full autonomous or slave operation

communication via usb or XBeewireless serial protocol

keypad and display

7 analog inputs for external light, temp, or other analog sensors

external motor driver module protects controller

The cool transparent enclosure is made out of tough polycarbonate to keep things dry with a gasketed seal, and the swing open door provides easy access when needed for making connections. We install one 3/4" watertight flex conduit fitting for cable access (which easily handles power, usb, and a couple jack connections), but additional fittings may be made on any side.

The MegaTracker1 features an Arduino compatible ATMEGA 1280 processor motherboard with our custom PCB on top. A 16x2 LCD displays status information and the sealed membrane keypad makes configuration and stand-alone operation a breeze. With built in motor driver, temp sensing, Real-Time-Clock with alarm and battery backup, display and keypad headers as well as a total of 9 I/O ports and more, this board is ready for your next home solar robotic project.

Software updates for the MegaTracker1 program will be available for free to registered owners. The USB connection to the motherboard makes updating the SolarMega1 firmware quick and easy without a special programmer.

SolarMega1 Software features:

Support for Polar, Horizontal, and Azimuth trackers

Support for control arm (~120deg max) or pulley/chain (linear rotation>180) actuator linkage